Traveling by air can be one of the most expensive parts of a trip, but with the rise of budget-friendly airlines, it’s now possible to save big on flights without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first getaway, flying on a budget doesn’t have to mean compromising on your travel experience. Here’s a guide to some of the best budget-friendly airlines that offer affordable fares, plus some tips on how to make the most of them.
1. Southwest Airlines (USA)
One of the most popular budget-friendly airlines in the U.S., Southwest Airlines is known for its affordable fares and customer-friendly policies. Here’s why Southwest is a great choice:
- No change fees – Southwest allows you to change your flight for free, which is rare among low-cost carriers.
- Two free checked bags – Many budget airlines charge for checked baggage, but Southwest gives you two free bags.
- Flexible fares – Southwest offers a variety of fare classes, with the most basic being affordable and the more flexible ones providing greater benefits.
- Free snacks and drinks – You won’t have to worry about purchasing expensive food or drinks on board.
While their international network isn’t as extensive as some larger airlines, Southwest is a fantastic option for domestic flights, especially if you’re flying within the U.S.
2. Ryanair (Europe)
For European travelers, Ryanair is a go-to airline when it comes to budget flights. It offers a vast network across Europe, allowing you to fly affordably between popular destinations. Here’s why Ryanair is great for budget-conscious travelers:
- Low base fares – Ryanair’s base fares are extremely low, but be aware that extra fees may apply for checked baggage, seat selection, and other services.
- Extensive European network – Ryanair flies to over 200 destinations in Europe, making it easy to hop between countries without spending a fortune.
- Frequent sales – Ryanair often runs flash sales where you can find deeply discounted flights.
- Onboard purchases – While they don’t offer free snacks, Ryanair does sell reasonably priced meals, snacks, and drinks.
If you’re flexible with your flight times and willing to pay a little extra for baggage and extras, Ryanair offers an excellent value for traveling across Europe.
3. EasyJet (Europe)
EasyJet is another European favorite, offering low-cost flights across Europe. It’s known for its extensive network and relatively low fees compared to other low-cost carriers. Here’s why EasyJet stands out:
- Large European network – EasyJet flies to over 150 destinations across Europe, from major cities to smaller towns.
- Reasonable baggage policies – While they charge for checked luggage, their carry-on baggage policy is quite generous compared to other budget airlines.
- Family-friendly options – EasyJet provides a “family bundle” that includes flexibility, priority boarding, and free checked bags for families.
- Affordable extras – While food and drinks are available for purchase, the prices are reasonable, and the menu offers a variety of options.
EasyJet’s competitive pricing and wide reach make it a great choice for travelers looking to explore Europe without blowing their budget.
4. Spirit Airlines (USA)
Spirit Airlines is one of the most well-known budget carriers in the U.S., famous for offering extremely low base fares. However, it’s important to be aware of their fees and additional charges. Here’s why Spirit can be a great budget option:
- Super low base fares – Spirit offers some of the cheapest tickets available in the U.S.
- Customizable travel options – Spirit’s “a la carte” pricing allows you to pay only for what you need, whether that’s a carry-on bag, seat selection, or priority boarding.
- Frequent deals – Spirit often offers sales, with flights available at incredibly low prices if you book in advance.
- Nationwide network – Spirit serves many major cities across the U.S., making it easy to find affordable flights.
While Spirit’s fees for extras can add up, you can still save a lot by carefully selecting only the services you need. For bare-bones travel, Spirit is tough to beat in terms of price.
5. AirAsia (Asia & Beyond)
AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier in Asia and a great choice for travelers looking to explore the region. AirAsia flies to over 150 destinations, primarily in Asia, but also offers routes to Australia, the Middle East, and Europe. Why choose AirAsia?
- Incredibly low fares – AirAsia is known for offering bargain flights, especially for travel within Asia.
- Wide network – AirAsia offers flights to popular tourist destinations like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Bali, and more.
- Affordable add-ons – Similar to other budget airlines, AirAsia offers add-ons like seat selection, checked baggage, and meals at affordable prices.
- Frequent sales – AirAsia runs frequent promotions, so booking in advance can get you the best possible deal.
For budget travel within Asia or to surrounding regions, AirAsia is a top choice.
6. Jetstar Airways (Australia & Asia)
Jetstar is a low-cost carrier based in Australia, offering affordable flights across the Asia-Pacific region. Here’s what makes Jetstar a solid budget option:
- Affordable fares – Jetstar is one of the most budget-friendly carriers in Australia and Asia.
- Great for short-haul flights – Jetstar specializes in short-haul routes, offering easy access to destinations across Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia.
- Low-cost extras – Jetstar offers low prices for food, baggage, and seat selection, allowing you to tailor your experience to your needs.
If you’re planning to explore Australia or Southeast Asia, Jetstar offers great deals for budget-conscious travelers.
Tips for Saving with Budget Airlines
- Book early – Budget airlines tend to offer the best prices when you book in advance.
- Check for additional fees – Be mindful of extra costs for baggage, seat selection, and other services.
- Travel light – Most budget airlines charge for checked baggage, so pack smart and stick to carry-ons.
- Use fare comparison websites – Use tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to find the best deals.